Ryuoo Sora Terrace: A heavenly view like no other

A ropeway ride up Mount Ryuoo from Kita Shiga Kogen in Nagano Prefecture will take you to the Ryuoo Sora Terrace, a utopia-like viewpoint 1,770 meters above sea level. The ropeway has one of the largest gondolas in the world, seating up to 166 people each ride.

The busiest time at the Sora Terrace is during winter when people from all around Japan and beyond visit the surrounding areas for their snowy holidays.

The terrace becomes the summit of Ryuoo Ski Park and the ropeway is used as a grand ski lift during this time. Lucky visitors might have the chance to see the unique phenomenon of unkai or the “sea of clouds” where waves of fluffy white clouds roll in over the ski resort below. Even if the clouds don’t roll in, the view from the top is truly magnificent, showcasing the unforgettable scenery of the Japanese Alps.

Sora Terrace in the off-season

Spring and summer are also opportune times to catch the amazing view where you suddenly feel as if you’ve risen into the heavens. Ths scene during sundown, as the sun sinks into the clouds, is something straight out of a dream.

Plus, in the summer season (July to October) a special Star Sky Night Cruise is available on weekends where you can ride the ropeway at night amongst a mesmerizing array of stars.